Iran is without a doubt and perhaps one of those special circuits that no one knows how to stage better than us. Here are the reasons:
* We have the best and most complex circuit on the market
* We venture to the islands of the Persian Gulf among: lunar landscapes, narrow canyons, spectacular valleys, red sand beaches, caves and rainbow mountains
* We admire the sunset on the immense dunes of the Mesr desert and watch the sky full of stars from the courtyard of a hospitable location in the middle of the desert
* We have daily culinary pampering and cook together with a local family
* We explore together a thousand-year-old history and a rich culture, crossing Iran from North to * South and living unique experiences
We specialize in creating fully customized tours, designed to meet the specific needs and preferences of our partners. No matter the type of tour you are looking for, we are equipped to design any itinerary, tailored to your desired travel style. From tailor-made active and adventure circuits to cultural tours that dive deep into Peru’s rich history, to exploration trips into the heart of the Amazon jungle, we offer experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for a luxury cruise or a slow tourism experience in the country’s hidden gems, we can craft the perfect journey for you. For those seeking exclusive experiences, we offer VIP and luxury circuits, where every detail is designed for maximum comfort and elegance. We also specialize in mixed itineraries, combining cultural immersion with nature adventures for a truly diverse and enriching experience. Additional options include photo safaris, gastronomic tours in historic cities, or mountain expeditions for hiking and climbing enthusiasts.
Iran. The continuity of one of the oldest civilizations on Earth undoubtedly represents a true treasure of both tangible and intangible heritage. The antiquity, richness of Persian culture and civilization, the variety of natural and geographical attractions, the climate showcasing all four seasons simultaneously, and the cultural sites of tribes preserving ancient traditions and customs fascinate and draw travelers’ attention like a magnet.
Its millennia-old civilization, the multitude of monuments, as well as historical and archaeological sites, demonstrate the diversity and value of its religious and spiritual heritage, as well as the intact traditions of this country as a sign of authenticity and splendor.
There is an attraction in Iran that is not included on the UNESCO World Heritage list or the national treasury list, on any map or guidebook; it exists only in the hearts of its people and is offered to guests through kind eye contact, genuine smiles, friendly conversations, and invitations for tea or dinner. And no matter which city or region of the country you visit, despite the many different ethnicities in Iran, you will be welcomed with open arms every time. Iranian hospitality is one of the reasons why “Lonely Planet” named Iran the most rewarding destination on Earth.
Iran, the land of seasons, the land of history and culture, the embodiment of authenticity adorned with mountains and deserts, forests, plains, and seas, awaits you to be discovered on a storybook journey like no other that only we can offer.
For 13 nights and 14 days, we embark on the most comprehensive tour ever organized in Iran and the Persian Gulf. Believe us, no other itinerary offers so many experiences, harmoniously combined to provide the adventure of a lifetime:
* Tehran – the capital of Iran and the largest metropolitan city in the Middle East: visiting the Archaeology Museum, Golestan Palace, the bazaar, Nature Bridge, Saad Abad Palace, and more
* Darband region – Tehran – located at the foot of the mountains, famous for its fresh air and delicious food, with traditional cafes and restaurants built into the rocks along and over the river flowing from the mountains
* Three days exploring the most fabulous islands of the Persian Gulf: Qeshm, Hengam, and Hormuz: discovering spectacular canyons, salt caves, mangrove forests, reddish beaches, mountains and rainbow valleys, as well as other important geological phenomena, most of which are protected as part of the Qeshm Island Geopark, recognized by UNESCO
* Shiraz – the city of gardens and cultural and artistic capital of Iran; exploring the most attractive sites of Shiraz: Pink Mosque (Nasir-al-Mulk), Narenjestan Qavam Mansion, the Tombs of Hafez and Saadi, Eram Garden or Paradise Garden, a historic location included in the UNESCO World Heritage, Shiraz Bazaar, Karimkhan Citadel, and more
* Cooking session and a special dinner with traditional music with a local family in Shiraz
* Persepolis and Necropolis – the ruins of the most important city of the Achaemenid Empire, and the most famous and visited archaeological sites in the world, included in the UNESCO World Heritage in 1979
* Yazd – a fabulous city in the middle of the Dasht-e Kavir desert, unchanged since the time of great caravans and the Silk and Spice Roads
* Silence Towers (“Silent Towers”), used by Zoroastrians as open-air burial sites, the famous Windcatchers, historic Dowlat Abad Garden, Zoroastrian Fire Temple, and more
* Witnessing a traditional sport demonstration at Zurkhaneh
* Sunset jeep safari over the sand dunes of the Dasht-e Kavir desert
* Sunrise camel ride
* Narin Castle or Narin Ghale – not only the most important attraction in Meybod but also one of the oldest adobe constructions in architectural history
* Ancient caravanserai in Meybod
* Kharanagh – an authentic desert village
* Isfahan – the most beautiful city in Iran and perhaps one of the most beautiful in the world with its remarkable attractions
* Abyaneh village (“Red Village”) at the foot of the mountains, charming for its red houses and the people who still wear traditional colorful clothing
* Natanz – a little-known village in Iran – visiting a traditional ceramic workshop where the craft has been passed down through generations, using only local raw materials
* Kashan – a historic city, known as the first of the great oases on the edge of Iran’s central desert
* Fin Garden – the oldest garden in Iran, included in the UNESCO World Heritage
* Tabatabaei and Boroujerdi houses – the most beautifully decorated historic houses and true architectural masterpieces
* Climbing historic Sialk Hill – whose ruins remind of over 8,000 years of civilization
* And… many other surprises that you will discover on-site 😊
PROGRAM
DAY 1
After completing the formalities of entering the country, we are picked up from the airport by the local representative and transferred to the hotel for dinner and accommodation. Meals included for the day: meals on the plane and dinner in Tehran.
DAY 2
After breakfast, we start the day fresh with a tour of Iran’s capital, Tehran, the largest metropolitan city in the Middle East. We begin with the Archaeology Museum (prehistoric hall), part of the National Museum of Iran. The Archaeology Museum caters to all tastes and provides an overview of the oldest artifacts, from the Paleolithic period to Islamic times.
Next, we visit Golestan Palace (only 2 halls are included), one of the oldest buildings in Tehran, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2013. The luxurious Golestan Palace is a masterpiece of the Qajar era, successfully integrating Persian craftsmanship and architecture with Western influences. Built in brick, it is one of the oldest building complexes in Tehran and became the government seat of the Qajar family, who came to power in 1779 and made Tehran the country’s capital.
We continue with a short walk through Tehran’s Grand Bazaar, then cross on foot the Tabiat Bridge, or Nature Bridge, to enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Tabiat Bridge is the largest elevated pedestrian bridge in Tehran, measuring 270 meters in length and connecting two public parks. Along the way, we can indulge in street food or traditional snacks (optional).
After lunch, we visit one of the palaces of the Saadabad Complex, originally the summer residence of the Qajar kings in the 19th century and later the residential complex of the Pahlavi family in the 20th century. The complex is located in the Darband area, at the foot of the Alborz Mountains, overlooking Tehran.
In the evening, we spend time in the Darband region (meaning “Gate to the Mountains”), a village favored by Iranian aristocrats for its spectacular scenery and climate. We take a short mountain walk along a path flanked by cliffs, with restaurants and cafes carved into the rock, along a rushing mountain stream. It’s a unique atmosphere where we will also have dinner above the river at one of the traditional rock restaurants.
In the evening, we return to our hotel in Tehran for an overnight stay.
Meals included: breakfast and dinner.
DAY 3
Early in the morning, we are transferred to Tehran airport for our flight to the Persian Gulf Islands. Depending on the October flight schedule (domestic flights are displayed two months in advance), there are two possibilities: either we fly from Tehran to Bandar Abbas and then take a ferry to Qeshm Island, or we fly directly from Tehran to Qeshm.
Upon arrival on Qeshm Island, we begin exploring the largest island in the Persian Gulf and a UNESCO-recognized Global Geopark. Qeshm Island is bordered by mangrove forests with unique biodiversity, which we will explore by boat, experiencing this spectacular natural phenomenon up close.
Lunch will be served in the home of a traditional local family (included), giving us a chance to admire the lifestyle and directly interact with the customs and culture of the island’s inhabitants, known as the Bandari. These southern Iranian coastal residents are a mix of ethnicities and cultures, including African, Arab, Indian, and Persian influences. Most locals wear clothing different from other Iranian provinces; women often wear colorful dresses instead of the typical black chador, while men dress in Arab-style attire. The boreghehur (masks) worn by many Bandari women, both Sunni and Shiite, are among the most striking cultural elements.
After lunch, we visit a traditional wooden boat construction site, then Laft, the oldest authentic port village on the island, over 2,000 years old and known for its windcatchers and qanats.
Before sunset, we venture into the sun-scorched interior of the island, rich in canyons, hills, caves, and geologically significant valleys, most of which are protected as part of the UNESCO-recognized Qeshm Island Geopark. A true delight for nature lovers, as we explore the Stars Valley in the evening – one of the island’s most spectacular natural sites, featuring majestic gorges and canyons formed over centuries of erosion. Wandering through the valley is a magical experience – like stepping into a Dalí painting.
In the evening, we check in to our hotel in Qeshm and have dinner (optional).
Meals included: breakfast and lunch.
DAY 4
After breakfast, we board a boat and set off on a new adventure to the next island in the Persian Gulf, Hengam Island, located south of Qeshm. Despite its small size, the island is peaceful and highly attractive. If we are lucky, playful dolphins may accompany us along the way, emerging from the blue waters of the gulf, a phenomenon unique to this area.
Hengam Island has only three villages, completely free of roads and vehicles, allowing the locals to live in a tranquility and peace that is rare in today’s world.
We return by boat to Qeshm Island for lunch at a local home (included), after which we head to Chahkooh Canyon, one of the most striking natural attractions on the island due to its unusual and spectacular rock formations. The 100-meter-deep Chahkooh Valley was shaped by the erosion of sedimentary rocks under the influence of rain, wind, and sun, creating natural cliffs and rock sculptures in diverse shapes and colors, giving visitors the feeling of being on another planet.
We will walk 10–15 minutes to reach the canyon entrance, after which we explore it on foot, occasionally needing to climb over rocks to continue further. The difficulty level is easy to moderate, requiring only sturdy, grippy footwear and a positive attitude.
If time permits at the end of the day, we will also visit Kharbas Cave, a remarkable example of rock-cut architecture.
In the evening, we return to the hotel and have dinner (optional).
Meals included: breakfast and lunch.
DAY 5
Early in the morning, we board a ferry and cross the gulf to the third magnificent island on our itinerary, Hormuz Island. Located just 8 km off the coast of Iran in the turquoise waters of the Persian Gulf, Hormuz is famous for its unique geological formations and dramatic landscapes. The island is a gleaming salt dome in the shape of a tear, interlaced with layers of shale, clay, and iron-rich volcanic rocks that sparkle in dazzling shades of red, yellow, and orange due to the presence of over 70 different minerals.
Upon arrival, we visit the Red Beach, rich in iron oxides, followed by a trip to the Valley of Statues, a breathtaking area where natural rock formations resemble dragons, birds, and mythical creatures. The cliffs offer spectacular views of the surrounding coast.
Next, we explore Rainbow Valley, a narrow valley with multicolored soil framed by the “Rainbow Mountains.” The valley features over 70 colors from various minerals such as dolomite (black, white, gray), pyrite, gypsum, anhydrite, apatite, and iron oxides. The soil colors range from white, yellow, red, green, orange, beige, and brown to turquoise, pink, gray, and even gold. The red soil, known as “Gelak,” has traditional uses in painting, cooking, medicine, and art.
To conclude our exploration of Hormuz, we visit the Rainbow Cave, formed by water flowing under the salt mountain into the sea. The cave’s spectacular colors – approximately 70 different hues – are the result of mineral compositions, particularly iron compounds combined with other elements. Salt rocks are visible at the entrance, gradually giving way to vividly colored walls. Headlamps are required to fully enjoy the cave experience.
Lunch is served at a local household (included), after which we return by ferry to Qeshm Island.
Meals included: breakfast and lunch.
DAY 6
Today, we take the ferry from Qeshm to Bandar Abbas, where our coach will be waiting to transfer us to Shiraz (approximately 575 km). Along the way, we’ll stop for lunch in Darab (optional), and then visit the Sasanid Palace ruins in Sarvestan, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an outstanding example of Persian architecture from the Sasanid era.
In the evening, we arrive in Shiraz, check in at the hotel, and enjoy dinner.
Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner.
DAY 7
After breakfast, we will enjoy a full-day tour of Shiraz, the cultural and artistic capital of Iran, also known as the “City of Gardens.”
We begin with one of Iran’s most spectacular mosques, the Pink Mosque (Nasir-al-Mulk Mosque), named for the predominance of pink used in its ceiling decorations. The prayer hall takes on a magical charm when sunlight filters through the colored glass windows.
Next, we visit Narenjestan Qavam Mansion, one of Shiraz’s most beautiful mansions, featuring an impressive garden and a history spanning over a hundred years.
We then continue to the Tombs of Hafez and Saadi, memorial structures on the northern edge of the city honoring the famous Persian poets Hafez and Saadi. A stroll through the Eram Garden (Paradise Garden) follows—a historic site included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Around lunchtime, we explore the Shiraz Bazaar and visit Karimkhan Citadel, located within the complex of the same name.
In the evening, we gather with a local family for a cooking session, learning how to prepare saffron rice and other traditional Persian dishes. Dinner will be accompanied by traditional music and famous verses of Hafez.
Overnight in Shiraz.
Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner.
DAY 8
After breakfast, we set off for our final destination of the day, Yazd, where we will spend the night. On the way, we make an essential stop at the famous site of Persepolis. Persepolis was the capital of the Achaemenid dynasty under King Darius the Great, ruler of the Persian Empire from 522–486 BC. It was the most important city of the Achaemenid Empire, and its ruins are among the most famous and visited archaeological sites in the world, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.
Before venturing further into the desert toward Yazd, we make two more stops: Necropolis (Naqsh-e Rustam) – a rock-cut cliff featuring the tombs of the great Achaemenid kings (upper section) and reliefs from the Sassanid period; and the Tomb of Cyrus at Pasargadae – the burial place of Cyrus the Great, founder of the Persian Empire, standing in the middle of the desert plateau. This massive stone tomb has withstood the elements for over 2,500 years and remains an impressive and memorable sight.
After an optional lunch, we continue through the desert for several hours until reaching Yazd, a remarkable city that has remained largely unchanged since the era of the great caravans and the Silk and Spice Roads. Upon arrival near Yazd, we visit the Silent Towers (Towers of Silence), used by Zoroastrians for sky burials. Here, the deceased were placed in rows to be cleansed by birds of prey, leaving only the bones, which were later collected and placed in a central pit.
In the evening, we enjoy dinner and overnight in Yazd. Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner.
DAY 9
Today we spend a full day exploring Yazd, the unique desert city. We begin in the old town, admiring the famous Wind Catchers for which Yazd is renowned. Iran has an extreme and arid climate, with very hot days and considerably cooler nights. Long before electricity and air conditioning were invented, the Persians developed ingenious ways to stay cool, giving rise to these wind catchers – an ancient form of natural air conditioning. These traditional Persian architectural towers create natural ventilation inside buildings, with openings at the top that capture and direct the wind. Yazd, one of Iran’s largest cities, is known as the “City of Windcatchers,” perfectly suited to this cooling system.
Next, we visit Dowlat Abad Garden, one of the historic Persian gardens over 200 years old, home to the tallest wind tower in the world, standing 33 meters high. We continue to the Zoroastrian Fire Temple, where a sacred flame has been kept burning continuously for more than 1,500 years, symbolizing one of the world’s oldest organized religions. In the evening, we attend a traditional sport demonstration at the Zurkhaneh.
Overnight and dinner in Yazd. Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner.
DAY 10
Today we will have a full day of adventure in the central desert of Dasht-e Kavir, with stops to visit an authentic desert village, Kharanagh (time permitting), and then the city of Meybod, a center of brick and ceramic production in Iran and a city registered on Iran’s historical heritage list for its more than 7,000 years of valuable history.
In Meybod, we will visit Narin Castle (Narin Ghale), which is not only the most important attraction in Meybod but also one of the oldest mud-brick structures in the history of architecture. Next, we explore the Meybod Shah Abbasi Caravanserai, an ancient roadside inn built during the Safavid era with a total of 100 rooms, notable for its architecture, interior design, and strategic location.
After lunch, we stop in the desert village of Mesr, where we can enjoy the stunning sand dunes of this arid region, followed by an authentic adrenaline rush at sunset with a 4×4 jeep safari across the dunes. Dinner will be served in an authentic setting with a hospitable local family offering a culinary delight made exclusively from locally sourced organic ingredients.
Overnight stay in Mesr. Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner.
DAY 11
Today we have the chance to admire a spectacular sunrise from camels. After breakfast, we leave the central desert and head toward one of Iran’s most beautiful cities, Isfahan, located approximately 425 km to the west.
On the way, we make a short stop in Anarak, a historic town situated at 1,429 meters altitude on the edge of the Dasht-e Kavir desert. The main attraction here is the old town with its ancient caravanserai. Next, we visit the Jame Mosque in Nain, one of the oldest mosques in Iran, over 1,000 years old and still functioning.
Upon arrival in the magnificent city of Isfahan, we take a panoramic city tour of about 1 hour and then head to Jolfa, the Armenian quarter of the city, known for its vibrant nightlife, where young people enjoy quality coffee alongside unique street food. Here, dinner can be enjoyed at a local restaurant, and the evening can be spent at leisure.
Overnight stay in Isfahan. Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner.
DAY 12
Today we will spend the entire day in Isfahan, a city that has preserved much of its past glory. Many visitors consider Isfahan the most beautiful city in Iran and one of the most beautiful in the world. It features tree-lined boulevards, flower gardens, kilometers of scenic parks along the Zayandeh Rood River, covered bazaars over 1,300 years old, bridges, palaces, mosques, and minarets. These cultural and historical treasures inspired the Persian proverb: “Isfahan is half the world” (“Esfahān nesf-e-jahān ast”).
We visit the famous Naghsh-e Jahan Square, one of the largest central squares in the world, along with its main attractions: Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Shah Mosque, Ali Qapu Palace, and the Gheysarieh Bazaar. After lunch, we continue with Chehel Sotun Palace, or the “Palace of Forty Columns,” built by Shah Abbas II and used for receptions and festivities during the time when Isfahan was the capital of Iran. The palace impresses visitors with its stunning 17th-century architecture and magnificent murals.
We finish the day with an evening walk along one of Iran’s longest bridges, Si-o-Se-Pol, also known as the Allahverdi Khan Bridge or “Bridge of 33 Arches.” This bridge, one of eleven in Isfahan that cross the Zayandehrud River, is famous for its size, central location, and prominent architecture. It is also a lively hub of city nightlife, attracting both locals and tourists.
Overnight stay in Isfahan. Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner.
DAY 13
After breakfast, we head toward the city of Kashan, with a stop at Natanz, a lesser-known village in Iran that still holds a few interesting attractions. We visit a traditional pottery workshop where the craft has been passed down through generations, and the entire production process relies exclusively on locally sourced materials.
Next, we stop for a few hours to have lunch in the famous village of Abyaneh, also known as the “Red Village,” located at the foot of the mountains. Its charm comes from the red color of the houses and the locals who still wear traditional colorful clothing.
In the evening, we arrive in Kashan, a historic city known as the first of the great oases along the Qom-Kerman route near the edge of Iran’s central desert. Its charm lies mainly in the contrast between the vast arid desert and the greenery of the well-maintained oasis. Once in Kashan, we spend the next hour exploring Fin Garden, the oldest garden in Iran, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Overnight stay in Kashan. Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner.
DAY 14
On the final day of our tour, we make the most of memorable experiences before heading to the airport. After breakfast, we begin the city tour of Kashan with visits to the most beautifully decorated historic houses: Tabatabaei and Boroujerdi (Brujerdi), true architectural masterpieces. Visiting these houses offers a unique insight into how locals lived, reflecting the culture, personality, values, and interests of the community. They convey rich information about the city’s political, economic, historical, and social life, and, more broadly, about the country.
Next, we visit the famous Agha Bozorg Mosque and Sultan Bath. We then explore the historic Sialk Hill, home to over 8,000 years of civilization. A century ago, no one knew about this ancient structure hidden under the hill, located 3 kilometers southwest of Kashan, later recognized as a remnant of one of the earliest human civilizations.
We enjoy lunch in Kashan before proceeding to the airport, with a brief stop in Qom if time permits. Qom, situated at 930 meters above sea level, is one of the most important centers of theological and religious education, holding a privileged role in the religious, political, and social development of recent decades.
We then move to a restaurant near Tehran Airport for an optional dinner. Afterward, we are transferred to the airport.
Meals included: Breakfast.
INFORMATION
* Domestic flight Tehran-Bandar Abass or Qeshm
* Ferry-boat tickets
* Half board for the entire period – 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches (days 3, 4 and 5) and 10 dinners with delicious local dishes.
* Accommodation 13 nights in clean 3 and 4 star hotels and traditional guest houses
* National English-speaking guide for the entire tour
* Air-conditioned transport for the entire tour
* 4×4 desert jeep safari
* Entrance fees for all the objectives in the program (except the optional ones)
* Entry visa to Iran
* Lunch/dinner if deemed necessary (other than those included in the package)
* Drinks at dinner and of any other nature, other than those included at various times of the program and at breakfast
* Single supplement
* Tips
* Cancellation and health insurance
* Any other personal expenses
* camel ride at sunrise
The hotels where we will be staying or similar options depending on availability:
Tehran – Ferdowsi Grand Hotel – 4*
Qeshm – Avina Hotel – 4*
Shiraz – Karimkhan Hotel – 4*
Yazd – Moshir Garden Hotel – 4*
Mesr – Shenzar Ecolodge – Guesthouse in the desert
Isfahan – Setareh Hotel – 3*
Kashan – Adib House – historical house over 200 years old, renovated and transformed into a hotel
We provide a full range of travel services, including:
* Private transfers and comfortable transport to suit your needs.
* Accommodation in luxurious hotels or authentic, handpicked lodgings based on your preferences.
* Meals at top restaurants or traditional culinary experiences.
* Personalized activities: hiking, biking, visits to local communities, wildlife and flora observation, craft workshops, and more.
* Entry tickets for iconic attractions or hidden gems.
* Private guiding services in the language of your choice, provided by expert local guides who will share in-depth knowledge of the region’s culture and history.
* 24/7 assistance throughout your entire journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Additionally, we are prepared to meet any special requests, whether it’s organizing corporate events or incentive trips in unique locations, or creating exclusive tours for small or large groups. Is a destination filled with wonder and diversity, and we’re here to help you explore it in a completely personalized and unforgettable way. Whether you’re looking for a classic tour or a luxurious experience, there’s nothing we can’t offer. Contact us and let us create the perfect vacation for you!